PhD Student Position

Ausschreibungstext

The Herndler-Brandstetter Lab at the Institute of Cancer Research (Medical University of Vienna) is offering a

PhD Student Position in Translational Tumor Immunology

Cancer immunotherapy has provided significant clinical benefit to a number of patients with advanced disease. However, the need for more precise immunotherapies and predictive biomarkers remains of paramount importance, as complete and durable responses are only seen in 15-20% of patients. By integrating the complexity of the patient’s tumor and immune system in a novel in vivo model, we aim to model the patient’s tumor-immune microenvironment (TIME) in vivo and investigate therapy resistance mechanisms. To address this, we have developed a next-generation humanized mouse model, which supports the growth of patient-derived tumors and enables combination therapy screenings. In summary, we will integrate the complexity of the patient’s tumor and immune system in a novel in vivo model, thereby aiming to advance precision immuno-oncology by uncovering novel therapeutic targets and prognostic markers and by providing a framework for effective combination treatment approaches for cancer patients.

Requirements

Highly qualified applicants from all over the world are invited to apply. Previous research experience (immunology, tumor biology, animal handling) is a plus. All applicants must have excellent academic track records and must demonstrate strong enthusiasm and talent for research. Applicants should be fluent in written and spoken English (TOEFL certificate or others). All applicants must hold a university degree in natural sciences/medicine (Master of Science or equivalent) latest by January 2020, and should fulfill the official admission criteria for PhD students at the Medical University of Vienna.

Application Information & Deadlines

- Application deadline: October 15, 2019

- Interviews: January 2020

- Start date: March 1, 2020

The salary offered by the FWF to doctoral students is among the highest for University PhD Programs in Europe (www.fwf.ac.at/en/research-funding/personnel-costs/). Vienna is ranked as one of the best cities to live and has a large English-speaking community. The Medical University of Vienna is one of the largest medical campuses in Europe, located within walking distance of Vienna´s historical center.

- 2-3 written recommendations. Note that you must contact your referees and make sure that they send a reference. We will not contact your referees; it is your responsibility to ensure that references reach us by the application deadline

Further details about the International PhD Program in Translational Oncology (IPPTO), a new excellence PhD program by the Austrian Science Fund (FWF) to promote outstanding education and training for doctoral students, and the projects offered by other faculty members are available on the IPPTO homepage at phd-ippto.meduniwien.ac.at.